Key Art Museums in Daytona

The Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art

Overview and Historical Significance
The Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art is a unique cultural gem in Daytona Beach, Florida, known for its extensive collection dedicated to Florida-themed art. Opened in 2015, it has captured the attention of art enthusiasts and historians alike for its focus on a specific regional identity. The museum, part of the larger Museum of Arts and Sciences complex, was made possible through the generous donation by longtime patrons Cici and Hyatt Brown, who gifted their extraordinary collection and funded the creation of this dedicated space. Its establishment marked a significant addition to Daytona's cultural landscape, highlighting the historical and environmental aspects of Florida through artwork.

Key Exhibits and Collections
The museum houses the largest collection of Florida art in the world, featuring over 2,600 works that span from the 1800s to contemporary pieces. Notable collections include paintings of Florida landscapes, wildlife, and cultural scenes, capturing the state's natural beauty and vibrant history. Visitors can explore thematic exhibits, such as Florida Weather, which showcases dramatic depictions of the state's infamous storms, and Before Photography, highlighting artistic representations of Florida before the advent of the camera. The diversity of styles and periods offers a comprehensive overview of how artists have perceived and documented Florida throughout history.

Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS)

Overview and Historical Significance
The Museum of Arts and Sciences (MOAS) is a cornerstone of the Daytona art scene, serving as an educational and cultural hub since its inception in 1955. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, MOAS is recognized for its diverse offerings, including art, science, and history exhibits. Its commitment to lifelong learning and community engagement has made it a beloved institution in the region. The museum complex spans multiple buildings and includes not only art galleries but also a planetarium and a children's museum, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach to education and cultural enrichment.

Notable Art Exhibits
MOAS boasts an impressive array of art exhibits, ranging from classic to contemporary. Key highlights include an extensive collection of American art, with works from the 19th and 20th centuries, and a notable selection of Cuban and African art. The African art collection, one of the strongest in the region, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and artistic traditions of the continent. Additionally, MOAS regularly hosts traveling exhibitions, ensuring that the collections remain fresh and dynamic. These rotating displays often include renowned artworks from around the world, providing visitors with diverse and ever-changing artistic experiences.

Southeast Museum of Photography

Overview and Historical Significance
The Southeast Museum of Photography, located at Daytona State College, is an exceptional institution dedicated to the art and promotion of photography. As one of only a few museums in the nation devoted exclusively to photography, it holds a special place in Daytona's creative community. Since opening its doors in 1992, the museum has become an influential venue for both established and emerging photographers, offering a platform for innovative photographic art. Its existence within the educational setting of Daytona State College underscores the museum's commitment to fostering visual literacy and supporting educational initiatives.

Highlights from the Permanent Collection
The museum's permanent collection includes an impressive array of photographic works that span various styles and periods. The collection showcases works from notable photographers such as Dorothea Lange and Jerry Uelsmann, alongside contemporary artists pushing the boundaries of the medium. Visitors can explore thematic exhibitions that reflect current trends and historical developments in photography. In addition to displaying these collections, the museum offers educational programs and workshops that encourage community participation and engagement with the art of photography. Through these initiatives, the Southeast Museum of Photography remains a vital cultural resource in Daytona Beach.